The idea of the ‘new normal‘ was quickly transformed peak-pandemic in 2020. The work from home policies resulted in hundreds of countries across the world transitioning to a long-term remote working structure even in a recovering world. The feasibility and apparent desirability of the work from home model engendered the Virtual Working Program, dubbed the nomad visa, which is a program that allows individuals to live in Dubai while working virtually. Not only this, they get access to all the services and benefits that residents enjoy – including telecom, utilities and educational facilities.
Who wouldn’t want to live and work by the beach? Hear waves crashing in the background and replace the virtual zoom background with a real one? Well, get packing because, with a mere USD611, you can apply for a residency visa in Dubai! I mean, what more could we ask for? There are technicalities to the process such as medical testing, application fees and some others but the process is mostly expedited and easy to understand execute.
Nitty-gritty aside, the team at Property Finder plays match-maker, rounding up an insider guide to the city’s hottest residential areas best suited for different personalities and professions.
For the Financial Analysts & Traders
The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is (obviously) a no-brainer for financial analysts and traders alike. Situated in the heart of the city, DIFC seamlessly brings together any and all things in the world of finance – be it corporate offices and fine dining restaurants, or luxury retail outlets, lavish hotels and niche art galleries, DIFC has it all.
At $3,180 per month, a fully furnished 1,300 sq. ft apartment in the centre of Dubai’s financial hub sits at a stone’s throw away from all financial institutions, and just around the corner from the vibrant City Walk. Its central location and swanky architectural design offer convenience with an edge of sophistication that perfectly represents the city’s ethos.
For the techie/computer engineer
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is the place to be for any techie. Flooded with cafes overlooking the beach and that beautiful breeze that makes its way through the buildings and palms, JBR offers the perfect serene setting to get cracking with coding.
A rent of roughly $3,900 a month can get you a fully furnished, 1,180 sq. ft apartment in a beach-front building. Complete with entertainment destinations and social happenings scattered throughout the waterfront community, JBR’s lively atmosphere serves as the ideal distraction from the demanding nature of any techie’s day-to-day.
For the Artists & Designers
Artists looking to immerse themselves in the creative scene the city has to offer should ideally opt for an apartment in Downtown Dubai. From Dubai Design District’s (D3) striking street art to DIFC’s grand art exhibitions and fancy galleries, Downtown Dubai is the perfect place – whether you’re seeking creative inspiration, or simply looking to admire the local talent.
With $2,500, reside in a fully furnished 900 sq. ft apartment (all bills included), in the heart of Dubai. Mesmerizing views of the world’s tallest skyscraper and at walking distance from the world’s largest mall Downtown Dubai is bursting with hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
For the Content Writers & PR’s
Whether you’re looking for a good cup of coffee and a quiet corner to overcome that dreaded writer’s block (we’ve all been there!) or just want to escape for a while, City Walk is the place for you. With European cobbled streets and glistening streetlights, to phone boxes and Banksy-style cartoon murals, City Walk whisks you away from chaotic city life.
For $2,730 – with everything from bedding and kitchen appliances to utility bills and high-speed(!!) WiFi included, a bright and spacious one-bedroom flat in City Walk could be yours.
For those that just want to have fun
For those looking to take advantage of Dubai’s vibrant social scene, an apartment on the coastline in the Dubai Marina will not disappoint. Renowned for its divine dining and buzzing nightlife, and within arm’s reach from 5-star hotels and the city’s favourite malls, Dubai Marina is one of the most sought-after residential communities amongst expats. The epicentre of entertainment and nightlife, this community also enjoys connectivity and ease-of-access to the entire Emirate, complemented by blissful sea views that are sure to impress.
$3,550 a month can bag you a furnished one-bedroom apartment, in the iconic Cayan Tower that stands at a whopping 1,010 feet as the world’s tallest twisting tower, that rotates a complete 90 degrees.